-MONTANA  ELK HUNTS-

BE PREPARED
Even though we like to use horses to access areas, and the elevation is lower than many other mountains states, hunters still need to be prepared for hiking.

Based on weather, location of game, etc. you may hike several days during your trip or mix riding with hiking.

We recommend that you start walking several months before your hunt; a minimum of a mile (3-4 is best), 2-3 times a week, further & more if possible. Make sure to wear your boots when walking, this will reduce the chance of blisters in the field. Wearing your pack will also help reduce sore backs and help you choose what you really want to carry all day.
In addition to walking  prior to your hunt try climbing up and down stairs or adding squats to your work out this will help lessen the chance of sore knees from riding horses, but is not a guarantee.

Hunts are normally conducted out of a lodge, all bedding, towels etc. are provided.

Please verify with us your arrival and departure dates - prior to making travel plans. 

Space is limited at the lodge during hunting season.

If you arrive early, you will need to book a motel room in Missoula, to be picked up  or finish driving in, the day before your scheduled hunt.

Early departure flights may also need to book a motel room for the night of your last hunt day.

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THE BASICS
Hunting license
Airline tickets
Rifle or Bow and carry case for shipping

Rifle &/or Bow Sling
Rifle scope lens covers
Shells or Arrows (at least 2 boxes of shells) 
Medications - make sure you have informed us of any special medical needs before your hunt (Diabetes, Heart Conditions, Food Allergies, etc.)

 

CLOTHING (think in terms of light layers - mornings & evenings may be cold, but warm days)
Socks for each day - wool synthetic blend, moisture wicking
Underwear
Light weight polypropylene, silk or under armor bottoms (long john's)
Light weight polypropylene, silk or under armor long sleeves tops

Light weight polypropylene, silk or under armor t-shirts
Pants - wool recommended for late season winter hunts
Zip-up jacket, with zipper pockets for hat and gloves

Hoodie 

Light Vest
Fleece stocking cap
Camouflage baseball style cap

Neck Gaiter
Fleece or wool gloves
Waterproof gloves
Rain gear (quiet cloth type)  including Leg Gaiters
Boots (Comfortable - already broken in, otherwise be prepared for blisters)
House shoes (for the lodge)

Personal Items (Shampoo, Shave Kit, Soap, Tooth Brush, etc.)
Orange vest or coat with at least 400 sq. inches visible above waist
                    ***Clothing should be made of material that is quiet when hiking in brushy areas**

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BACKPACK & OTHER GEAR
Fanny Pack or Small Backpack - quiet cloth (we really like the fanny packs that convert to a back pack)
Emergency fire starter kit in a zip-lock bag (matches & lighter)
Small first-aid kit

2-3 black garbage bags in quart zip-lock bag
2 flashlights - small head lamp and small hand held with extra batteries
Knife - sharp 3 in. to 5 in. blade

Multi Tool

Small bundle nylon cord/rope (10-15 ft)
Compass
Toilet paper in a zip-lock bag
Camera in a zip-lock bag (batteries, film, memory card etc.)
Binoculars

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